Italian Chicken Rice Casserole A Flavorful One-Dish Delight

Italian Chicken Rice Casserole: A Flavorful One-Dish Delight

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Italian Chicken Rice Casserole is a mouthwatering, savory dish that brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and the aromatic flavors of Italian herbs and spices. This one-pot meal is both hearty and comforting, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of cheese, vegetables, and zesty seasoning creates a perfectly balanced dish that is both filling and delicious. Easy to prepare and requiring minimal effort, this casserole is a fantastic option for busy days when you want something nutritious and flavorful.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and thyme. Cook the chicken until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the rice and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast in the pan.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix everything together. Allow the rice to absorb the liquid, cooking for another 5 minutes.
  7. Transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded together.
  10. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  11. Garnish with fresh basil before serving for an extra touch of flavor and color.
  12. Serve hot, and enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.

This Italian Chicken Rice Casserole is the epitome of a comforting, easy-to-make dish with the perfect blend of flavors. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this casserole will impress with its irresistible aroma and satisfying taste. By using simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. The best part is that leftovers taste just as wonderful, making it a perfect option for meal prepping. Enjoy this dish as part of your regular rotation and savor the flavors of Italy in every bite!

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